Development, characterization, and cytotoxicity of starch-based electrospun nanofibrous scaffold incorporated with bioactive compound from Cayratia trifolia

Abstract

This study focuses on developing starch-based nanofibrous scaffolds encapsulated with linolenyl alcohol, a bioactive compound from Cayratia trifolia. Electrospun nanofibers were created by blending linolenyl alcohol with starch solutions at varying concentrations (10%, 20%, and 40% v/v) and extensively characterized. Scanning electron microscopy revealed nanofiber diameters between 73 and 95 nm for those encapsulating linolenyl alcohol, and this exhibited superior thermal stability compared to free linolenyl alcohol, as confirmed by thermogravimetric analysis. Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy affirmed the interaction between starch and linolenyl alcohol within the nanofibers, confirming successful encapsulation. This incorporation not only maintained the compound's integrity but also enhanced its controlled release potential, rendering it promising for drug delivery applications. The application of 40% linolenyl alcohol-loaded nanofibers resulted in a noteworthy increase in the viability of HaCat cells. These findings suggest that these scaffolds hold potential as versatile platforms for tissue engineering and controlled drug release, thereby advancing innovative biomedical applications. This research contributes to the burgeoning fields of biomaterials and biopharmaceuticals, highlighting the significance of natural compounds in scaffold design for advancing medical therapies.